He emphasized that large multinational companies have significant budgets and actively defend their interests. "Six years ago, when I served as Deputy Minister, we developed a bill to ban smoking, and I personally faced powerful lobbying against us. Even organizations dealing with diabetes opposed this project, although they should be supporting the health of the nation. They spread false information and manipulated it. Nevertheless, we managed to convince the deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh of the necessity of such a ban," the minister noted.
He also added that it is necessary to restrict the sale of alcohol during nighttime. "Most crimes, such as domestic violence, traffic accidents, and street fights, occur during this period and are often related to alcohol consumption. Currently, alcohol is available around the clock. We could consider allowing the sale of alcohol at night only in restaurants and at high prices. Additionally, the number of places where cigarettes and alcohol can be purchased should be reduced. In developed countries such as Europe, Korea, the USA, and Japan, this does not happen, which certainly affects the life expectancy of their residents. They lead active lifestyles, engage in sports, and adhere to proper nutrition," concluded Erkin Checheybaev.
